The Trade Timeline Breakdown

The Miami Dolphins acquired Jalen Ramsey in March 2023 through a trade with the Los Angeles Rams, sending a third-round pick and tight end Hunter Long to California. While expectations were high, Ramsey's Miami journey has faced challenges:

Key Moments

- July 2023: Suffered torn meniscus during training camp
- Returned Week 8 of 2023 season
- Played all 17 games in 2024 season
- Signed 3-year contract extension worth $72.3 million

Current Negotiation Status

As the June 1 trade deadline approaches, three main factors are shaping discussions:

Financial Roadblocks

Ramsey's 2025 Salary Cap hit of $24 million with $24 million guaranteed continues to stall talks. The Dolphins refuse to absorb any portion of the guaranteed money, creating tension with interested teams.

Potential Suitors

Three teams have emerged as serious contenders:
- Los Angeles Rams (most likely destination)
- Las Vegas Raiders
- Tennessee Titans

Rams Reunion Scenario

Multiple factors make a Rams return plausible:

Coaching Connection

Head coach Sean McVay maintains strong rapport with Ramsey, recently praising him as "the ultimate competitor." The pair previously won Super Bowl LVI together.

Financial Considerations

- Rams currently have $19.9M cap space
- Post-June 1 trade would save Dolphins $18.45M
- Miami's dead cap hit would drop to $6.75M

Health and Performance Factors

While Ramsey's 2024 stats (60 tackles, 2 INTs, 11 PDs) prove his elite ability, teams remain cautious about:

Injury History

- 2023 knee surgery
- Chronic shoulder concerns
- Missed 7 games in 2023 season

2024 Comeback

Despite previous injuries, Ramsey demonstrated durability by playing every game last season, showcasing his trademark physicality in coverage.

What's Next?

The Dolphins face critical decisions in the coming weeks:
- Accept partial salary retention to facilitate trade
- Risk losing trade leverage after June 1
- Potential contract restructuring with new team

Teams interested in acquiring Ramsey must weigh his proven playmaking ability against significant financial commitments and durability questions.